- Dentist
Darlington Dental Clinic
Assessment report published 28 April 2026
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 18 March 2026.
We found the practice had met regulations.
The practice had effective systems to identify and manage risks, including infection prevention and control.
Staff had the skills, knowledge and experience to carry out their roles.
Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
Staff provided care and treatment in line with current guidance. They treated patients with dignity and respect and ensured access to care, support, and treatment when required.
The practice is in Darlington and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
The practice had 3 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 9 staff. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including 3 dentists, 2 dental nurses, 1 receptionist and the practice manager.
The service provides cosmetic treatments, some of which are not in scope of CQC regulation and are not covered in our inspection.
People's experience of this service
On the day of our inspection, we saw patient feedback from 8 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
Comments included, “I think that this dental practice is phenomenal…”
“Good service with helpful staff and good access to services.”
“The service provided by Darlington Dental Clinic is very good and always is. Staff are always pleasant and helpful.”
“I have been coming to this practice for a number of years and have always been happy with my treatment and the staff are always pleasant and helpful I have found this practice very good.”
Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness. “Environment feels safe and is certainly hygienic…”
“…The environment is very hygienic and safe for everyone even kids.”
Patients felt able to book appointments within an acceptable timescale for their needs and said they had enough time during their appointment without feeling rushed.
Patients told us they were given clear information to help them make an informed choice about their treatment and any associated costs. They were involved in decisions about their care. “The dentist went through all options for the treatment and I’m very happy with the result I therefore would hesitate to come back.”
“Staff always meet our needs with right care and treatment.”
“Everything is fully explained, any problems are looked into, nothing is disregarded…”
Patients said when they were prescribed medicines, sufficient information was given.
Patients told us that they were supported to maintain their oral health and were provided with appropriate information and resources.
The practice shared patient feedback with the team. We were told this was reviewed and where suggestions had been made, appropriate action would be taken.